13Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding,

but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod.

14Wise people treasure knowledge,

but the babbling of a fool invites disaster.

15The wealth of the rich is their fortress;

the poverty of the poor is their destruction.

16The earnings of the godly enhance their lives,

but evil people squander their money on sin.

17People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life,

but those who ignore correction will go astray.

18Hiding hatred makes you a liar;

slandering others makes you a fool.

19Too much talk leads to sin.

Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

20The words of the godly are like sterling silver;

the heart of a fool is worthless.

21The words of the godly encourage many,

but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.

22The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich,

and he adds no sorrow with it.

23Doing wrong is fun for a fool,

but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible.

24The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled;

the hopes of the godly will be granted.

25When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away,

but the godly have a lasting foundation.

26Lazy people irritate their employers,

like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes.